Denis Betts manages expectations as the Vikings re-enter Super League

The wait to re-enter Super League is over for Widnes but coach Denis Betts is trying to temper expectations ahead of the opening match against Wakefield.

Vikings invasion: Denis Betts will lead Widnes back into the big time (Picture: Action Images)

Relegated in 2005, the Vikings are back with a guaranteed three-year licence for the top flight.

And Betts, the former Wigan and Great Britain forward who returned to rugby league in 2010 from union club Gloucester, believes it will take much of that time to become a force.

âEverybodyâs expectations are so great,â he said. âWeâve a great tradition but the time away has been substantial and we have to realise itâs about building a strong foundation.â

Betts has virtually rebuilt his squad and accepts it will take time for his team to gel on the new artificial pitch at the Stobart Stadium.

âWe canât hang our hat on this one game. A lot of these lads have only played 40 or 50 minutes together. It will take six to 12 months to know exactly where we stand,â he added.

Wakefieldâs new coach Richard Agar has been even busier in the transfer market and former St Helens forward Paul Johnson is the only member of last yearâs team to make the squad for tonightâs opener.

Betts is wary, though, the Wildcats âwill want to spoil the partyâ.

The 42-year-old said: âThey are coming under the radar because the focus has been on us being back.â

Agar is a former Widnes stand-off and is delighted to see them return.

âI know the passion and fervour around the club and I think theyâll prove to be a worthwhile addition,â he said. âWatching them in pre-season, it looks to me like Denis has got them well organised.â

In tonightâs other game, Leeds launch the defence of their title against Hull KR at Headingley.